This topic is about managing a high-output ileostomy, where food seems to pass through the digestive system very quickly, often appearing undigested in the ostomy pouch. This can be concerning because it might mean that nutrients aren't being absorbed properly. Here are some helpful tips and insights for dealing with this situation:

1. Consider checking for Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS):
- Ask your surgeon about the length of your remaining small bowel, as a very short length can lead to rapid, poorly digested output and malabsorption.
- Be aware that high, watery output can lead to dehydration and kidney issues.

2. Use medications to slow down transit time:
- Loperamide (Immodium) is often used, with a typical regimen being 2 tablets with each meal and 2 at bedtime, but do not exceed 16 mg per day.
- Discuss other medication options with your healthcare provider if needed.

3. Try to thicken or bulk up the output:
- Bananas are often recommended, with some people eating 3–4 per day.
- Other options include unsweetened applesauce, potatoes (including chips for extra sodium), rice, oatmeal-raisin cookies, cassava, and marshmallows before bag changes.
- Peanut or almond butter can serve as a calorie-dense thickener.
- Psyllium fiber products like Metamucil Fiber Gummies or Psyllium Husk powder can be helpful. Some people blend the powder into a smoothie with vanilla almond milk, banana, and protein powder to drink before it gels.
- Liquid IV (an electrolyte powder) can help maintain hydration while adding some bulk.

4. Be mindful of foods and textures:
- Limit or chew very well foods like raw or highly fibrous vegetables, salad greens, carrot pieces, corn, pepper skins, olive skins, bean skins, and blueberries, as they often pass visibly.
- Coffee and carbonated drinks can speed up output.
- Focus on chewing thoroughly until the food is mushy to reduce visible particles and blockages.

5. Adopt practical habits:
- Keep a food and output diary or use a mobile app to track what affects your transit time.
- Expect variability in transit times; for example, light salads may pass in 1–2 hours, while starches and proteins might take 4–5 hours or longer.
- Night-time emptying is common; some people take extra loperamide at bedtime and avoid large meals late in the evening to minimize sleep disruption.

6. Know when to seek medical advice:
- If you experience continual very high liquid output, weight loss, or signs of dehydration (such as thirst, dizziness, or low urine output), seek prompt evaluation for SBS, medication adjustments, or dietitian support.